Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2008 Saturn Aura
The 2008 Saturn AURA has multiple recalls and numerous owner complaints, primarily focusing on the power train, steering, and electrical systems. Significant issues have been reported with the automatic transmission, steering shafts, and electrical wiring. Due to these complaints and recalls, potential buyers should inspect these areas thoroughly. The data suggests frequent issues, so proceed cautiously with this potential purchase.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2008 Saturn Aura has 5 NHTSA recall campaigns and 433 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #14E044000 Steering Shaft Inadequate Support of U-Joint NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #14V252000 Brake Lights may or may not Randomly Illuminate NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #14V224000 Transmission Shift Cable may Fracture/Rollaway NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #14V153000 Sudden Loss of Electric Power Steering NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #12V460000 The Transmission Shift Cable May Detach NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Power Train 124 complaints
- Steering 112 complaints
- Electrical System 93 complaints
- Service Brakes 59 complaints
- Exterior Lighting 45 complaints
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC) 43 complaints
Of the 433 complaints on file, 18 report a crash and 1 a fire; across all 433 complaints, owners report 9 injuries and 1 death (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Transmission shift cable failure
How to check: Ensure the transmission shifts smoothly and correctly displays gear positions.
Loss of power steering assist
How to check: Test the steering power assist during low-speed maneuvers.
Electrical system wiring defects
How to check: Verify all electrical functions work, especially lights and controls.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual engine noises or vibrations.
Red flag: Loud knocking or persistent noise
- 02
Parking lot maneuvers
What to check: Check for smooth steering and power assist function.
Red flag: Difficulty in steering or loss of assist
- 03
City driving
What to check: Observe transmission shifts for smoothness and accuracy.
Red flag: Rough shifting or gear mismatch
- 04
Highway acceleration
What to check: Ensure engine power is adequate and smooth.
Red flag: Hesitation or power loss
- 05
Braking
What to check: Check for responsive brakes without pulling or noise.
Red flag: Soft pedal or unusual noises when braking
- 06
Electrical function check
What to check: Test lights, indicators, and electronic controls.
Red flag: Inoperative lights or controls
- 07
Return parking
What to check: Listen for any new noises after the drive.
Red flag: New knocking or grinding noises
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the steering intermediate shaft been replaced?
- Any transmission repairs or history of issues?
- Are all recall repairs completed?
- What electrical issues have you experienced?
- How often have the brakes been serviced?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Complete maintenance records
- Proof of recall repairs
- Title and registration
- Vehicle history report
- Any recent repair invoices
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2008 Saturn Aura at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2008 Saturn Aura? Check the actual car
This checklist covers the model. From your free try.vin dashboard you can go further — paste the seller's listing for a deal score, or drop their photos for an AI condition report.